Amid an influx of deal work, law firms are ratcheting up their perks and rewards for associates, perhaps none more so than top performer Kirkland & Ellis.

Legal industry sources say Kirkland, the highest-grossing law firm in the world, is among the most aggressive and competitive with associate talent now—in keeping with its approach for snagging and retaining talented partners. The firm has introduced a meal reimbursement program for associates and is also offering large signing and retention bonuses for associates.